Middlesbrough have decided not to appeal against the red card shown to Mido in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Arsenal.

The Egypt international was sent off by referee Mark Halsey when his boot appeared to make contact with Gael Clichy's head as both players went for the ball.

Gareth Southgate, the Middlesbrough manager, believes Mido made an honest attempt to win the ball but has decided not to lodge an appeal, fearing the ban could be increased. That was the case when Middlesbrough appealed against the red card shown to Jeremie Aliadiere last month.

"Having spoken to the referee's chief and to the referee himself, their feeling is that the decision wouldn't be altered," Southgate said. "Whether or not there is intent is no longer considered, it's about whether a challenge puts the opponent in danger. At no time has anybody suggested Mido intended to do what he did, but unfortunately it is perceived as dangerous play because he caught the lad."

Southgate admitted he is frustrated at losing his first choice striker for the closing stages of the season as Middlesbrough look to preserve their Premier League status.

"We're not very happy about it but I can see why the referee has sent the lad off under those rules. But a three-match ban is very harsh," he said.